From: Abrams [abrams@netvision.net.il]
Sent: Friday, March 30, 2001 10:11 AM
To: fdadockets@oc.fda.gov
Subject: comments regarding Docket 00N-1396 & Docket 00D-1598
The proposed new rules on GE foods do not require mandatory pre-market safety testing or environmental review. This is particularly important in the case of GE crops, as genes posing consumer health or environmental hazards have the potential to multiply explosively even if originating in a small population.
They do not require mandatory labeling of GE foods. This is necesarry as GE foods could sometimes be toxic, cause allergic reactions and compromise the immune system. People who experience such symptoms need to have access to this information in case they might be caused by GE crops, so that they are able to take proper action to protect their own health. for the same reason, consumers should be aware of GE free foods available to them: voluntary labeling of such foods should be encouraged, not restricted. Also, the public should have access to adequate information regarding GE foods and crops, for independent review
the fact that currently proposed FDA rules are supported by industry and opposed by consumer groups is a testament to their standing against public health and in support of corporate greed.
Yours,
Ishay Abrams,
Israel
I am an american citizen living abroad